Substitute, Education ​/ Teaching

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Substitute will be responsible for classroom, meal service, dietary, and family educational activities to ensure a quality center-based program for families. Duties vary according to the length of the assignment.

Education Substitute Duties:

• Be available to fill in for Early Head Start Teacher, Head Start Teacher Assistant, Extended Day Teacher Assistant, or Center Aide whenever needed.
• Cooperate with and follow through on suggestions/recommendations of managers, leaders, and specialists to establish a quality comprehensive child/family program.
• Understand the needs of children in the classroom (health issues: asthma, allergies, seizures, hearing/vision) and make appropriate accommodations to ensure child outcomes are achieved.
• Assist in providing developmentally appropriate activities to enhance physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of children.
• Introduce age-appropriate materials to children, volunteers, and provide guidance to promote children’s physical growth. Assist in guiding children in developing basic concepts as prescribed in education, nutrition, health, dental, and mental health plans.
• Assist with classroom activities including reading stories, preparing and delivering activities, conducting small and large group activities, and alerting teachers to any issues.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly classroom and playground environment. Monitor and report needed repairs. Sanitize classroom areas regularly and ensure safety.

• Encourage language development by asking open-ended questions. Promote cultural acceptance, positive self-concept, and social skills. Encourage appropriate behavior. Facilitate learning experiences that promote problem-solving, exploration, and mastery through hands-on learning.
• Supervise children at all times, maintaining child/staff ratios as per policies. Report child abuse and neglect according to policies.
• Work as a team with all staff, including teachers, co-workers, supervisors, and specialists in education, health, and family partnerships.
• Participate actively in center activities, parent meetings, and training programs.
• Act as an advocate and role model for Head Start recruits.
• Maintain confidentiality of all client, staff, and agency information.
• Foster effective working relationships with coworkers and external contacts.
• Organize and prioritize assignments. Participate in community activities related to Head Start/Early Head Start.
• Participate in USDA training and ongoing program monitoring and assessments.
• Attend safety, storm, and fire drills. Submit reports and documents as required.
• Follow policies and procedures of Head Start, federal, state, and local laws, including Head Start Performance Standards.
• Adhere to You Thrive Florida policies, including personnel, safety, and payroll policies.

• Pick up meals from providers, ensure food safety, and deliver to classrooms during USDA-approved times.
• Handle food containers, clean areas, and store snacks properly.
• Maintain supplies and deliver materials to classrooms as needed.
• Drive vehicle for meal and supply transportation, perform safety checks, and ensure vehicle cleanliness and fuel levels.
• Maintain USDA/Child Care Food Program documentation accurately and timely.
• Collaborate with staff during meal pickup and delivery, and communicate any issues to educational staff.

Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or management. This description is not exhaustive of all duties, skills, or working conditions associated with the position.

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent. Complete all required trainings, including CPR/First Aid within 90 days. Maintain minimum work hours to stay active as a substitute.

Experience: No experience required.

Licenses & Certifications: Valid Florida driver’s license, insurable, and background checks required.

Physical ability to perform tasks including lifting up to 65 lbs., standing, sitting, and other physical activities. Knowledge of health and sanitation practices, classroom management, and ability to communicate effectively. Reliable, responsible, and able to work with children, including those with special needs. Maintain confidentiality and establish effective relationships.

Primary location is in Hernando, Sumter, and Volusia counties with occasional travel. Work environment includes office settings, outdoor, and vehicle operation.